In a strategic move to bolster its naval prowess, Iran has launched its first drone-carrier warship, Shahid Bagheri, signaling a significant advancement in its maritime capabilities. This newly inaugurated vessel, operated by the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard’s navy, underscores Iran's commitment to increasing its defense and deterrence capacity across distant waters.
According to reports, the Shahid Bagheri is equipped to handle an array of military hardware, including multiple squadrons of drones, helicopters, and cruise missiles. Notably, the warship boasts a 180-meter-long runway that enables it to launch and retrieve drones as part of its operational duties. The ship is also reported to travel extraordinary distances of up to 22,000 nautical miles without necessitating port refuel, showcasing its ability to remain at sea for extended periods.
Iran's state television coverage of the inauguration ceremony highlighted the presence of multiple helicopters and drones stationed on the vessel's expansive runway. General Hossein Salami, the head of the Revolutionary Guard, emphasized the ship's capacity to operate independently for up to a year. He asserted that while Iran does not intend to instigate conflict, the nation strives to enhance its military deterrent power to ward off potential threats.
The warship has been converted from a commercial ship over a span of more than two years, a transformation managed under the direction of Chief of the Guard’s navy, Adm. Ali Reza Tangsiri. The conversion showcases Iran's ongoing efforts to repurpose available resources for military enhancements.
In addition to its combat capabilities, the Shahid Bagheri is equipped with facilities aimed at improving the quality of life for its crew during extended missions. These facilities include a hospital and a gym, ensuring that both the physical well-being and operational readiness of the crew are maintained at all times.
This warship marks a new chapter in Iran's naval strategy, aligning with its longstanding objective of increasing its presence in international waters. Since 1992, Iran has been pursuing a military self-sufficiency plan, which includes the domestic production of advanced military technology, such as submarines, jet fighters, and tanks. The Shahid Bagheri stands as a testament to this strategic goal, illustrating the nation's focus on expanding its maritime reach and protecting its interests.
This maritime advancement is not only a testament to Iran's innovative approach to military development but also a signal to the international community about its evolving capabilities. As nations navigate the complex dynamics of global security, developments like the launch of the Shahid Bagheri could have significant implications for balance of power considerations in marine territories.
